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  • Blog > Applications, Essays

Essay Scoop: How to Answer the Northwestern Essay Prompt

Picture of Madeleine Karydes

Madeleine Karydes

  • March 1, 2017

Northwestern Essay Prompt

Located in Evanston, Illinois, Northwestern University’s beautiful campus is home to a global brain hub. The school welcomes two thousand new students every year to various vibrant academic programs. This renowned university does require a high-quality essay to earn admission, however. Read on for our advice on how to tackle the Northwestern essay prompt! First, we discuss the prompt itself; then, we discuss how you can set yourself apart.

NORTHWESTERN ESSAY PROMPT:

What are the unique qualities of Northwestern – and of the specific undergraduate school(s) to which you are applying – that make you want to attend the University?

In what ways do you hope to take advantage of the qualities you have identified? (300 Words)

Introductory thoughts

You have only a short prompt to help distinguish you beyond the common app and numbers. Therefore, your interest will largely be based on your ability to link very specific campus resources to your future goals. This needs to go beyond the types of clubs or classes.

What else can you write?

When brainstorming, think of academic programs, professors, courses, clubs, or traditions. Further examples include a specific major concentration; a specific professor’s research; a specific research lab and experiments that interest you; etc.

Keys to success

In the end, you will need to explain how this sets you apart as well. As you write, tie these into a story that shares your vision for the next several years. The most effective student writing a response on any college application will explain what you hope to gain from them (the school).

Don’t forget that Empowerly wants you to succeed. Book a consult and skim over this valuable Essay Guide while you have time. We can’t wait to see you. Good luck!

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Madeleine Karydes

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